21st Century Horror

Rating: 10/10 (16 July 2003)

This is Danny Boyle's finest work since Shallow Grave.
Despite what might be considered its shortcomings - 28 Days is shot on video, its production value leaving something to be desired, a couple of plot twists are somewhat muddy, and there is that pesky accent thing - which makes us, Americans, have to watch it time and again (darn!) - this film stands head and shoulders above not only Boyle's recent work, but most Hollywood summer blockbusters as well.
Heavily reminiscent of all three Night of the Living Dead movies, 28 Days Later single-handedly evolves the genre to the next level. This is humanity in the 21st century - no more retarded characters, no screaming "don't go in there!" at the screen, and, to be sure, it is scary as hell.
Being a girl, I would be remiss if I didn't mention all the cute boys - Christopher Eccleston is always terrific, even if he is totally unappreciated in Hollywood, and the lead, Cillian Murphy, is not only hot, he can act, too.
Brendan Gleeson's career speaks for itself - Tailor of Panama, The General, and Butcher Boy are some definite highlights, and both the girls, Naomie Harris, and Megan Burns are wonderfully real.
Technically, 28 Days Later is, quite possibly, the first film ever to transcend the visual limitations of DV, via its powerful story-telling and Brian Eno's strong musical score. Though, I did shed a tear for all those gorgeous shots of London not being in widescreen 35mm.
It's testament enough that 28 Days Later can hold its own against Hollywood's big guns - it made its budget back during the first weekend!